The word 'Builth' (or 'Buellt' in Welsh) is believed to be derived from the Welsh words 'bu' and 'allt', which, translated, mean 'the wild ox of the wooded slope'.

Attraction of the week - Shopping in Builth Wells

Nestling by the magnificant River Wye the town offers a totally different shopping experience. No shoppin malls and arcades here - Builth Wells boasts town centre shopping with true individuality. A range of independently owned retailers jostle side by side to provide a truly original shopping environment.

The town has a selection of shops seldom seen nowadays in one place, including fashion outlets, a baker, butchers, a florist, ja ewellers, an ironmonger, a newsagent, an electrical specialist, gift shops, and a selection of grocery stores.

A rubber ring for your kilner jar or the latest in microwave ovens? A pair of wellington boots or a complete wedding outfit? They're all right here in Builth Wells where the shop keepersare used to responding directly to the particular needs of their customers.